Ohio Daycare Ratios and Maximum Group Sizes

Ohio child care center ratios

Source

These figures come from Ohio Administrative Code rule 5180:2-12-18, Appendix A, administered by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth.

Last verified: October 2026

Rules that can change these numbers

When two or more age groups are combined, the ratio for the youngest child applies. All age groups may be combined when 12 or fewer children are in the center. Group size limits do not apply during nap time, meals, snacks, outdoor play, field trips, or special occasions.

Track staff-to-child ratios in Caredence

Caredence compares the children checked in to each classroom with the staff checked in to that room, using the children-per-staff limit your center sets for the room, and shows an over-ratio warning when there aren't enough staff. It doesn't apply state rules automatically, so use the figures above to choose each room's limit.

Check another location with the state ratio calculator, or see how Caredence supports daycare compliance.

For a national overview, read the staff-to-child ratios by state guide.